Claudia Dobles responds to political violence complaint

Costa Rican legislator Claudia Dobles has responded to a complaint of political violence against women filed against her by fellow lawmaker Martha Esquivel. The dispute arose following comments made by Dobles regarding Esquivel’s alleged debts to the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) and remarks concerning the legislative process involving the President of Congress.

Dobles expressed her willingness to cooperate with the investigation but cautioned that institutional mechanisms intended to combat gender-based violence must be used responsibly. She stated, “Not all criticism toward a woman can be categorized as political violence against women,” arguing that public officials must be held accountable for their actions regardless of gender.

Esquivel, representing the Pueblo Soberano Party, alleges that Dobles’ comments constituted political violence. Dobles has maintained that her statements were part of the necessary duty of accountability for public servants.